High schoolers explore igneous rocks by observing rock samples and considering cooling rates and composition. The third installment of a five-part geology series culminates in an activity where learners use igneous rock characteristics and identification charts to pinpoint specimens.

Concepts

igneous rocks, the rock cycle, types of rocks

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Additional Tags

science

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Instructional Ideas

• Use the resource as an introductory lesson on igneous rocks

Classroom Considerations

• If your state uses a specific igneous rocks classification/composition chart, substitute it for the one given in the resource
• Lesson could be extended over the course of two days as there is a lot of material to cover

Pros

• Analogy of pies cooling connects to the concept of intrusive/extrusive igneous rocks
• Lesson includes a comprehensive overview of igneous rocks

Cons

• Mafic and felsic are not defined in the student worksheets (most of the activity focuses on grain size)